Chrysler registers Cuda nameplate, Hemi engine perks up in interest

Fewer nameplates resonate with the muscle-obsessed Mopar crowd more than the Cuda. Packing a 426 Hemi engine under the long, shaker-equipped hood, the classic 'Cuda was potent enough to strike fear into the hearts and souls of more plebeian hardware... which was pretty much everything else on the road.

Now that the muscle car wars are officially back in full swing – and, perhaps most importantly, the latest Mustang, Camaro and Challenger have all proven to be hits with the American population – Chrysler has hinted that the 'Cuda could once again terrorize the dealership lot.

According to Allpar.com, Chrysler has even registered the name Cuda as a trademark. As we've said in the past (and our readers seem to agree), we'd be more than happy to welcome back the Barracuda to the muscle car fold... just so long as it's significantly different from the Dodge Challenger with which it will surely share its underpinnings.

Now would be a good time to point out that the 'Cuda was historically a bit smaller than the Challenger, with a two-inch reduction in wheelbase when compared to its sibling. What we can say for certain is that a reborn 'Cuda, should it ever see the light of day, won't be wearing its old Plymouth name badge. Our best guess is that it would be sold as a Chrysler. In any case, consider our interest piqued.